Art as first response
Making a case for creative psychosocial support in times of crisis.
A proposed recognition
The dissertation argues for recognizing expressive arts-based community murals as a form of creative psychosocial first response. It describes artistic engagement as a possible source of purpose, agency, connection and meaning within acute adversity.
Context comes first
The work emphasizes listening, cultural humility, community expertise and non-prescriptive facilitation. Local people shape the expression and its meanings. Facilitators support creative conditions rather than prescribe what a community should portray.
Scope and safeguards
This is a research proposal for the place of the arts in crisis response. It is distinct from established emergency-response standards, medical care and licensed clinical treatment. Ethical practice requires attention to safety, consent, cultural context, facilitator competence and local stewardship.
Source: Benjamin J. Swatez, Artegenesis Phenomenon, European Graduate School of Expressive Arts, March 31, 2026. Editorial introduction based on the supplied dissertation and updated CV.